Jacob Bethell to miss Champions Trophy due to hamstring injury
What's the story
England all-rounder Jacob Bethell has been ruled out of the upcoming 2025 ICC Champions Trophy with a left hamstring injury.
The setback came during England's tour of India, making him miss the second ODI in Cuttack.
Team captain Jos Buttler expressed his disappointment over Bethell's situation, saying "I'm pretty sure he's been ruled out of the Champions Trophy, to be honest."
He made this statement after England's loss against hosts India in the second ODI in Cuttack on Sunday.
Replacement
Tom Banton to replace Bethell in England squad
With Jamie Smith also ruled out with a calf issue, Somerset's Tom Banton has been called up as Bethell's replacement.
Banton will join the team in India today.
The full extent of Bethell's injury is yet to be ascertained with an official announcement from England awaited.
Despite the setback, there is some good news as wicketkeeper-batter Smith took part in warm-ups on Sunday.
Career highlights
Bethell's performance and Banton's opportunity
Bethell had earlier shown his prowess with a score of 51 and 1 for 18 with his left-arm spin in the first ODI against India.
He has been earmarked by head coach Brendon McCullum as a key player across formats.
Meanwhile, Banton now has a chance to revive his international career, having last played for England in 2022.
Despite underwhelming performances so far, he is currently on a successful run after an impressive ILT20 season.
Performance
Bethell's performance in the first ODI
Meanwhile, Bethell sustained the injury during the first ODI against India, where he contributed a crucial 51 runs batting at No. 6, and became the youngest Englishman to score an ODI fifty in India.
He was one of England's two half-centurions as the visitors perished for 248 against India.
He walked in when England were reeling at 111/4 and went on to stitch a 59-run partnership with Buttler.